The Department of Fisheries, Sicilian Region, conducted a seminar and workshop targeted at potential buyers and partners at the sidelines of Sea Food Expo 2007 held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dubai.

The seminar, held in an effort to highlight the various high-quality Italian seafood and olive oil products, was attended by representatives from companies participating under the Italian pavilion at the exhibition and is aimed at increasing market penetration of Italian seafood products in the region.

According to the latest industry figures, international seafood exports from Italy were valued at Dh233 million ($63.44 million) in 2006.

The seminar featured Italian top-quality seafood products such as giant red and white prawns, small squids and octopus, and the famous Sicilian lobster, along with flavour-enhancing olive oil products.

The speakers emphasised the high quality standards and nutritional benefits of Italian-processed seafood products, all of which are subject to strict quality, safety, production cycles, and export procedures.

In addition, the organisers have identified luxury hotels, restaurants, and caterers in the UAE and Middle East as the primary target audience on account of the boom in the hospitality and food service sectors in the region.

“We recognise the tremendous opportunity in the Middle East seafood market, which has grown significantly as a result of increased demand for high quality and nutritional seafood products,” said general director, Department of Fisheries - Sicilian Region - Maurizio Agnese.

“Our participation in Sea Food Expo 2007 has provided us with a platform to explore business opportunities, gain exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technology and meet various sourcing prospects, and we are optimistic to establish a name in this lucrative market by supplying the best quality products, which are native to our country.” – TradeArabia News Service